Senate Bill No. SLS 26RS-247, introduced by Senator Talbot, establishes a Prescription Drug Affordability Board in Louisiana to tackle the escalating costs of prescription drugs. The bill outlines the board's structure, which includes appointed members from the Department of Insurance and public members with healthcare expertise. The board's responsibilities include developing a critical prescription drug list, requiring drug manufacturers to report detailed pricing and production costs, and ensuring transparency in drug pricing through educational materials for healthcare providers. Additionally, the bill mandates that manufacturers disclose significant price increases and provide justifications, with specific thresholds for brand name and generic drugs.

The legislation also imposes penalties for non-compliance with reporting requirements and grants the board the authority to conduct audits and issue annual reports on prescription drug pricing trends. Marketing materials directed at healthcare providers must include specific pricing information, such as average wholesale prices and historical price changes. The provisions of this bill are set to expire on June 30, 2028, and include amendments that clarify reporting requirements while protecting proprietary information submitted to the board.

Statutes affected:
SB401 Original: 44:1(B)(11)
SB401 Engrossed: 44:1(B)(11), 22:1870(B)(5)
SB401 Reengrossed: 44:1(B)(11), 22:1870(B)(5)